The Secret to Packing Clothing for a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide

Packing clothes efficiently when moving long distance

When you’re moving across town, transporting your wardrobe can be as simple as putting the hanging garments in the back seat of a car and driving them to the new place. However, when relocating to another state, keeping your favorite pieces in good condition takes a bit more care.

Let’s review advice from the moving experts at U-Pack® to help protect your clothing during transit.

How to pack clothes for a move

Follow these steps to prepare clothing for moving and pack it in an organized fashion:

Step 1: Sort and declutter your wardrobe

Decluttering before a move can save time when unpacking, and it can also save you money if you’re using a moving service like U-Pack, where you only pay for the space you use in the moving equipment.

Before packing anything, sort through your clothing and separate it into piles for keeping or donating. If there’s time, consider selling high-end clothing you no longer need. When choosing what to keep, consider any lifestyle changes from the move. For example, if you’re relocating from Michigan to Florida, you won’t need as much winter clothing.

Step 2: Pack a clothing essentials suitcase

Once your wardrobe is set, pull out items for during and after the move. Fill a suitcase with a week’s worth of outfits for each person in the family, including pajamas, undergarments, socks and comfortable shoes. Also set aside jackets and workout wear, if applicable.

This will be your travel bag during the move and will come in handy if you need some time to unpack at the new place. You can save space by rolling clothing or using packing cubes, which are available online or at most mass market retailers. Use the suitcase’s pockets for smaller items like undergarments, charging cords and other essentials. Wrap shoes in a grocery or large zipper-top bag to keep clothing clean.

Note: These suitcase packing tips also work well when preparing for a vacation.

Step 3: Use the right boxes or containers for each clothing type

Most people can sort their clothing into two types based on how they store it: folded or hanging. The garments can be transported as they are with the right methods. Make sure all clothing is clean and dry before getting started. Consider using moisture absorbers when moving during humid weather.

Packing folded clothes for a move

Lightweight clothing, like t-shirts, sweaters and undergarments, can be left inside when moving a dresser. Use plastic stretch wrap to secure the drawers and keep everything inside during transit. If the dresser is too heavy to move with the drawers, you can still use the removed drawers to transport the clothing — just cover the whole thing in plastic stretch wrap to protect the clothing inside.

Medium moving boxes also work well for shipping folded clothing, especially heavier items like jeans. Line the boxes with packing paper to keep everything clean, and then layer the clothing in the box. To maximize space, rotate the clothing so that the necklines or waistbands are on opposite sides of the box with each layer. Label the boxes clearly to make unpacking easier.

How to pack hanging clothing for moving

Wardrobe boxes are the best way to move hanging clothes, and they’re easy to use:

• Assemble the box and use packing tape to secure the seams
• Place the hanging bar into the pre-cut grooves
• Hang clothing on the bar
• You can put items like shoes, belts and purses at the bottom of the box to maximize space
• Label the box and tape it shut

Note: After the move, wardrobe boxes work well for storing off-season items or displaying clothing at a yard sale.

Step 4: Pack accessories and delicates with care

Take special care when packing accessories and any delicate items. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for shipping leather garments or formal wear, such as tuxedos or wedding dresses.

Learn more about packing these accessories:

• Cosmetics
• Jewelry
• Shoes

Step 5: Label and properly load the items

Make sure all clothing boxes are labeled by bedroom to keep it organized. Follow these professional loading tips to ensure garments stay safe inside the moving equipment.

Will your move take some time? Learn more about packing for storage.

FAQs about moving clothing

Should I use garbage bags to move my hanging clothing?

Multiple influencers suggest packing hanging clothing in garbage bags. This method works well for local moves when you’re transporting clothing in the back seat or trunk of a car without other things rubbing against it. When moving long-distance, garbage bags don’t offer enough protection. The bags could be easily torn, leaving your clothing dirty or damaged.

Can I use my clothing as packing material?

Clothing doesn’t offer the same level of protection as professional packing supplies for keeping fragile items safe during transit.

Are vacuum bags good for saving space while packing my clothes?

Vacuum bags work well for packing towels and bedding, but they can cause creases or damage some clothing over time. Use them with caution.

Let us know if you have additional packing questions

Check out U-Pack’s professional packing tips for advice to protect your belongings during a move. If you have additional questions about packing your clothing for a move, let us know in the comments. We’re happy to help!